Pasighat, May 2: A field-level workshop on “Strengthening the Mithun Value Chain through Semi-Intensive Production and Collective Farming Practices” was successfully organized at Mirem village on April 30 last.
The programme was conducted by the ICAR–National Research Centre on Mithun in collaboration with the North Eastern Region Community Resource Management (NERCOMS), the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary, Govt of Arunachal Pradesh, and Jomlo Mongku Mithun Farmers’ Federation (JMMFF), led by chairman Tadang Tamut.
The workshop witnessed the participation of over 350 farmers, along with scientists, veterinary officers, and other stakeholders, reflecting strong grassroots engagement in strengthening the mithun sector.
Delivering the welcome address, Dr Kathiravan Periasamy highlighted the ecological, socio-cultural, and economic significance of mithun and emphasized the need for greater scientific interventions in the sector. Takang Mize outlined key challenges faced by farmers at the field level, while Tadang Tamut stressed the importance of collective action and federation-led initiatives for sustainable growth.
Expert sessions featured Dr Sunep, who spoke on sustainable production systems; Dr D Longri, who elaborated on government initiatives related to animal health and breed improvement; and APFC Ltd Chairman Nalong Mize, who shared insights on community-led livestock development.
The technical and strategic importance of mithun was further elaborated by Dr Suresh S Honnappagol, while Chief Guest Dr KM Bujarbaruah emphasized the importance of coordinated institutional approaches for long-term sectoral growth.
The workshop included technical deliberations on scientific mithun husbandry, promotion of semi-intensive and collective farming models, and an exposure visit to the NERCOMS Mithun Breeding & Conservation Centre at Mirem. An interactive farmer feedback session focused on key issues such as breeding, feeding, healthcare, and market access.
Dr Manjunath Patel led the distribution of inputs to farmers to support the adoption of improved practices. The workshop ended on a positive note, with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to strengthen the mithun value chain through scientific, sustainable, and community-driven approaches, aimed at enhancing livelihoods across the North Eastern region.